How to Open a SharePoint File in a Desktop App

How to Open a SharePoint File in a Desktop App

To open SharePoint files in desktop applications, you’re going to need a few tips and tricks. In order to tackle this challenge, dive into the problem with an introduction to the issue. Afterwards, discover the significance of opening SharePoint files in desktop apps.

Introduction to the problem

Need to open a SharePoint file in a desktop app? Simple! Choose the file, click on the ‘…’ option, select ‘Open in Desktop App’ – and you’re done!

But, remember to have the relevant software installed. And if there’re any error messages or issues while trying to open the file, contact your IT department.

Here’s a bonus: opening files in the desktop app allows better functionality, more convenience for users, and quick editing/sharing of documents across various platforms.

I learned this the hard way while working on a project with remote team members. We had difficulty accessing/editing documents saved on SharePoint. But, when we figured out how to open them in our favorite desktop apps, collaboration became smoother, faster, and more efficient.

So, break free from web-based applications and enjoy the world of desktop apps!

Importance of opening SharePoint files in desktop apps

Open SharePoint files in desktop apps for better productivity. It gives access to features not available in the web-platform. Also, editing large files is easier as it offers better performance and stability. This is especially useful for businesses with large teams working on complex projects.

Locate the SharePoint file in the library. Click on the file name or the ellipsis icon (…) and select “Open in…” from the dropdown menu. Choose the desired desktop app, like Excel or Word. The file will open in the app and save changes back to SharePoint.

Unique benefit: you can work offline. Open the file in the app and continue working without internet. Changes will sync back to SharePoint when you are online again.

Pro Tip: Save changes in the desktop app before closing to ensure all modifications are saved to SharePoint. Avoid data loss and time-consuming rework. Regain control with these desktop app options.

Different Options to Open SharePoint Files in a Desktop App

To open SharePoint files in a desktop app, you need to understand different options available. You can use a web browser, sync files to a local folder, or use a SharePoint connector. Each option has its own solution.

Option 1: Using a Web Browser

SharePoint is a helpful platform for businesses to organize their data, documents, and projects. But, it might be tricky for some users to use. So, we have options for you to open SharePoint files on your desktop app. One way is to use a web browser.

Here’s a 6-step guide to get it done:

1. Open your browser and access the SharePoint website.
2. Sign in with your credentials.
3. Go to the file you want to open on the desktop app.
4. Click the “three-dots” icon next to the file and select “Open in Desktop App.”
5. The file will open in its respective desktop app (for example, Word document opens in Microsoft Word).
6. Make changes and save the file from the desktop app.

If you have a Mac, you need to install a OneDrive client for your Files On-Demand feature. This way, you don’t need to download every file onto your computer, saving time and space.

To have a better SharePoint experience, clear all cookies regularly. It’ll make your interactions with the website smoother.

Don’t bother with cloud storage. Get all your SharePoint files stored locally and act like you’re working remotely!

Option 2: Syncing Files to a Local Folder

Syncing files to a local folder is a great way to use SharePoint files offline. Here’s how to do it:

1. Open the SharePoint library that has the files you want.
2. Select ‘Sync’ on the top toolbar. This will launch OneDrive.
3. Pick a spot on your computer for the synced files and click ‘Start sync’.
4. Changes to the files will update both online and offline versions.
5. Deleting from the local folder will also delete from SharePoint – so back up!
6. Right-click the cloud icon in your system tray to ‘Stop syncing’ any time.

Note: If syncing more than 20,000 items in a library (or subfolder), it’s best to break up the library or use other tools like OneDrive for Business.

Get organized: Set up alerts in SharePoint to track changes easily.
Or try the SharePoint Connector – no goat required!

Option 3: Using a SharePoint Connector

A SharePoint Connector is a great way to open SharePoint files in a desktop app. It links SharePoint to your desktop apps, making it feel like they are saved there. Installing the connector gives you access to your SharePoint site. You can easily view and select files to open or download. Plus, any changes you make are instantly synced with the server, so everyone has the same version!

Amazingly, the concept of connectors began in the 1980s with Novell’s NetWare NLM APIs. Now, with a SharePoint Connector, you can enjoy the convenience of web browsing with SharePoint files!

Steps to Open SharePoint Files in a Desktop App Using a Web Browser

To open SharePoint files on your desktop, you need to follow simple steps. In order to find a solution for opening a SharePoint file in a desktop app, try following the sub-sections below. First, log in to your SharePoint site, then select the desired file you wish to open. Finally, click on “Open in…” and select your preferred desktop app.

Step 1: Log in to your SharePoint site

Unlock your SharePoint site with these easy steps!

1. Open a web browser
2. Type in the URL of the SharePoint site
3. Enter your username and password
4. Press Enter or hit Log In
5. You are now logged in and free to explore

It’s important to remember login details, or use “Forgot Password” if needed.

Seeking out the right file in SharePoint is like playing hide-and-seek with your boss’s presentation.

Step 2: Select the file you want to open

Let your desktop app have the chance to be the new love of your SharePoint files’ life! Here’s how to open a SharePoint file in a desktop app using a web browser:

1. Log in to your SharePoint account from your web browser.
2. Go to the document library where the file is saved.
3. Click the name of the file.
4. Select either “Open” or “Edit” to choose the app you want to use.
5. If you chose “Open”, the selected app will launch and load the file.
6. If “Edit” was chosen, the app will open with a new instance to make changes to the document.

Note: The file may be locked for editing by another user. In this case, you won’t be able to access it until it’s unlocked or made available again.

Pro Tip: If you’re having trouble accessing or finding a file, try searching with keywords or parameters like date modified, author name, or type of file.

Step 3: Click on “Open in…” and select your preferred desktop app

To open a SharePoint file in a desktop app, click on “Open in…” and choose your preferred desktop app. Here’s how:

1. Open the file in your web browser and click the “…” icon on the top right.
2. Click “Open in…“.
3. Choose your preferred desktop app from the options.

It’s important to be careful when selecting an app. Make sure it’s compatible with other office applications like Excel or Word. Otherwise, you may experience delays.

Follow these steps and you’ll be able to access SharePoint files on your desktop app without any hassle.

Steps to Open SharePoint Files in a Desktop App by Syncing to a Local Folder

To open SharePoint files in a desktop app, you can sync the library to your local folder. This is a simple solution that involves three steps. Firstly, sync the library with your local folder. Secondly, locate the synced file on your computer. Finally, double-click the file to open it in your preferred desktop app. These steps will ensure a hassle-free experience of opening SharePoint files in a desktop application.

Step 1: Sync the SharePoint library with your local folder

When dealing with SharePoint, it is important to sync the library with your local folder. This allows for easy access and collaboration. Here is the process:

1. Open the SharePoint library.
2. Click on the ‘Sync’ button at the top.
3. Choose whether you want to sync the whole library or specific folders.
4. Select a location on your computer to save the synced files/folders.
5. Click ‘Start Sync’.
6. The syncing process begins. You can now access these files in your local folder.

Beware: Syncing large libraries can take time and consume storage space. Re-sync any libraries after making changes for up-to-date info.

In the past, organizations had difficulty opening SharePoint files in desktop apps. This issue led to third-party applications that would help open SharePoint in Word or Excel documents. The lack of connectivity between Office apps and cloud storage caused the problem. Today, this issue has been resolved by syncing OneDrive and Box into customers’ computers and desktop apps such as PowerPoint or Word.

Finding the synced file is only slightly easier than finding a needle in a haystack.

Step 2: Locate the synced file on your computer

Sync SharePoint files to your computer and locate them. Here’s how:

1. Open the local folder.
2. Search for the file in the search bar.
3. If it is not visible, sort the folder by name, date modified, or type.
4. Double-click to open the file in your desktop app.
5. Save and sync changes back to SharePoint.

Remember, any changes in SharePoint or local folder will sync with each other if you use OneDrive for Business or SharePoint Workspace.

Pro Tip: To avoid confusion with multiple file versions, add version numbers or dates to the filename before saving.

Go ahead, double-click away and take that SharePoint risk!

Step 3: Double-click the file to open it in your preferred desktop app

Opening SharePoint files with a desktop app is a must for complex projects. Follow this guide to double-click and open the file with your preferred app.

1. Right-click the synced document library folder.
2. Select ‘Open in File Explorer.’
3. Navigate to the desired file.
4. Double-click the file with the desktop app icon.
5. Wait for the application to load.
6. The file will now appear in your app.

This process might seem daunting, but it’s an excellent way to open SharePoint files when dealing with lots of data, reducing the risk of errors.

Users used to have to access SharePoint documents through web browsers, making it tedious and long. It’s hard to imagine such a process before these steps became available.

Easily open your desktop app with these simple steps for opening SharePoint files!

Steps to Open SharePoint Files in a Desktop App Using a SharePoint Connector

To open your SharePoint files in a desktop app using a SharePoint Connector, follow these easy steps. Install the SharePoint Connector, connect to your SharePoint site, and select the file you want to open. Click “Open in…” to choose your preferred desktop app. The three sub-sections cover each step in detail.

Step 1: Install the SharePoint Connector

Installing the SharePoint Connector is the key to open SharePoint files in a desktop application. Here’s a 3-step guide to download and install the software:

1. Open Microsoft Word or PowerPoint and click “Insert” from the top menu.
2. Select “Office Add-ins” and search for “SharePoint Connector”.
3. Click “Add” to download and install.

You need administrator rights. Also, there are multiple versions of the Connector, so choose carefully.

SharePoint began as a document management system in 2001. It grew into a popular platform for business-wide knowledge sharing and content management. It allows teams from different organizations to collaborate. Connecting to SharePoint can be tricky, but the Connector makes it easier.

Step 2: Connect to your SharePoint site

Connecting to your SharePoint site is essential for opening SharePoint files in a desktop app. Here’s how:

1. Open the desktop app, e.g. Excel or Word.
2. Click ‘File’ then ‘Open’.
3. In the left pane, click ‘Add a Place’ and select ‘SharePoint’. Sign in if prompted.

You can now access and open all files within the SharePoint site. Also, it’s easier to collaborate with team members who have access to the same site.

A team had difficulty getting important documents as their organization used SharePoint with multiple sites for departments, groups and teams. After they connected to their respective sites, they could easily access all necessary files with no delays!

Opening ‘Open in…’ is like unlocking a treasure trove – but instead of mythical creatures, you find Excel spreadsheets!

Step 3: Select the file you want to open and click “Open in…” to open it in your preferred desktop app

Want to open SharePoint files in a desktop app? We’ve got you covered! Follow these 6 simple steps:

1. Log into your SharePoint account
2. Pick the file from your SharePoint library
3. Check for the ‘open in’ button at the top of the screen
4. Select your preferred desktop app
5. Click ‘open in [app name]’ to begin
6. Don’t forget to save and upload back to SharePoint when done!

You can also switch between different desktop apps. But if you still have trouble, just search online to find more information. This process can save time and preserve quality. So don’t miss out on this convenient opportunity!

Troubleshooting Tips for Opening SharePoint Files in a Desktop App

To troubleshoot opening SharePoint files in a desktop app, you can use the following tips: Check your internet connection, Make sure the file is not checked out, and Clear your browser cache. These sub-sections provide essential solutions to the common issues that may occur when attempting to open SharePoint files in a desktop app.

Tip 1: Check your internet connection

If you’re having trouble opening SharePoint files on a desktop application, check your internet connection. A weak connection could cause issues with online synchronization and sharing. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Ensure that you’re connected to the web and the connection is solid.
2. Refresh the page and try opening the file once more.
3. If you can’t access the file, log out and back in again.
4. If the issue continues, clear your browser’s cache and cookies, then try again.
5. Lastly, if none of these work, contact your network administrator to see if there are any system-wide network or software problems.

It’s not always necessary to check your internet connection to open SharePoint files. Other issues may be in play. However, it’s always smart to start by checking this as it can fix many common problems.

In 2001, when Microsoft first introduced SharePoint, it was primarily marketed as an intranet content management system. Over time, its abilities grew considerably – including document management, search features, workflow automation tools, and much more. Presently, SharePoint is one of Microsoft’s top enterprise collaboration platforms and is used by businesses worldwide.

So don’t let a simple task stress you out – make sure your SharePoint files can easily be edited!

Tip 2: Make sure the file is not checked out

Checking out a file on SharePoint is common. But if you’re getting an error message that it’s checked out, here’s a guide to help:

1. Try contacting the person who checked out the document. Ask if they’ve finished editing.
2. If you can’t reach them, check if your account has permission to override checkout.
3. If no one responds, wait 30-60 minutes. The system may check in automatically.
4. Finally, try opening and refreshing the document again.

Notify others if you plan to lock files for a long time. In case of other issues, contact your IT team. Like one incident where someone had checked out a project file and left on vacation without telling anyone. Nobody had permission to override checkout. Thankfully, they remembered SharePoint’s auto check-in. In less than an hour, the system checked in and unlocked access rights. Say goodbye to stale files and hello to newfound productivity! But still, you’ll have to deal with your co-worker’s stale jokes.

Tip 3: Clear your browser cache

When you experience difficulty opening SharePoint files in a desktop app, clearing your browser cache can be a lifesaver! Here’s how it’s done:

1. Click the three dots in the top right corner of your browser window.
2. Choose Settings from the menu.
3. Scroll down and click Advanced.
4. Under Privacy and security, select Clear browsing data. Tick off only Cached images and files, then press Clear data.

Clearing cache not only helps with file opening issues, but can also increase browser performance. Make sure to clear the cache regularly to keep things running smoothly.

Plus, clearing the browser cache helps with security too. According to TechRepublic, clearing your cache eliminates any sensitive info stored there.

Keep this tip in mind and save yourself time when troubleshooting! Hopefully these tips work, or else you’ll be crying tears of SharePoint frustration.

Conclusion

In the end, easy clicks to access all your SharePoint files? Yeah, it’s no hassle. But remember, the way you do this all depends on your version of SharePoint.

Need help? There’s plenty of online resources. Ask questions in SharePoint communities, or get expert advice from forums.

When I first started using SharePoint, I was stuck. But after a bit of research and help from my work buddies, I was good to go. If you’re having issues, don’t give up – there’s always a solution.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I open a SharePoint file in a desktop app?

To open a SharePoint file in a desktop app, first navigate to the file you wish to open in SharePoint, then click on the file to open it. From there, depending on the type of file, you may see an option to open in the desktop app. Simply click on that option and the file will open in the corresponding app on your desktop.

2. What if I don’t see an option to open the SharePoint file in a desktop app?

If you don’t see an option to open the SharePoint file in a desktop app, it’s possible that the desired app is not installed on your computer or that the file type is not compatible with the app. Check to make sure the app is installed and up-to-date, and try again. If the issue persists, try opening the file in a different app or format.

3. Can I make a SharePoint file open automatically in a desktop app?

Yes, you can set SharePoint files to automatically open in desktop apps. To do this, right-click on the SharePoint file and select “Properties.” From there, click on the “Change” button next to “Opens with” and select the desired desktop app. Then, check the box that says “Always use this app to open .[file extension] files” and click “OK.”

4. What should I do if I can’t find the SharePoint file I want to open?

If you can’t find the SharePoint file you want to open, make sure that you’re logged into the correct SharePoint site and that you have the necessary permissions to access the file. You can also try searching for the file by name or by keywords in the search bar.

5. Is it possible to edit a SharePoint file in a desktop app?

Yes, it is possible to edit a SharePoint file in a desktop app by following the steps outlined in question one. Simply open the file in the desired desktop app, make your edits, and save the file. The changes will automatically be synced with the SharePoint file.

6. Can I open a SharePoint file in a desktop app on a different device?

Yes, you can open a SharePoint file in a desktop app on a different device as long as you have the necessary software installed and are logged into the same SharePoint account. Simply follow the steps outlined in question one to open the file in the desktop app.